Everton favourite Phil Jagielka has had his contract cancelled with immediate effect by Derby County.
The Championship club are in administration, having had points deducted at the beginning of the season, leaving them in a desperate search for new owners.
And while the club's administrators are hopeful of naming a preferred bidder ahead of a potential takeover, Derby remain in dire straits financially.
This has left them with no money to spend on incoming players, relying on free agents, while even struggling to pay wages.
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Earlier this week, it was announced that defender Jagielka's contract would be extended until the end of the season.
But now, not only are the club not extending Jagielka's deal, The Telegraph's John Percy has reported that he is to have his contract cancelled, making him a free agent.
Percy tweeted: "On #dcfc. Phil Jagielka's contract has been cancelled today so he won't be eligible to face Sheff U on Saturday. Wayne Rooney fuming.
"Admins hopeful of naming preferred bidder in the next week (still between Mike Ashley & Andy Appleby group) and this urgently needs sorting ASAP."
A consortium fronted by former Wolves chief executive Jez Moxey, which features ex-Rams chairman Andy Appleby, have already submitted an offer, and the former Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley is also believed to be a considered bidder.
This latest development comes from an EFL board meeting that took place on Thursday.
